About this episode

Robert Bortins interviews Jane Hampton Cook about gratitude in America and the importance of classical education in preserving the republic.

What would it take to raise a generation that's grateful — not just grievance-driven — about America? In this episode of Refining Rhetoric , host Robert Bortins sits down with presidential historian, award-winning screenwriter, and author Jane Hampton Cook to explore America's 250th anniversary, the faith of the Founding Fathers, and why reclaiming gratitude is essential to preserving the republic. Jane shares untold stories from the American Revolution — including a Quaker woman who helped save Washington's army, the forgotten black heroes of Bunker Hill, and why George Washington referenced Providence over 560 times in his writings. She also unpacks how the Declaration of Independence planted seeds of liberty that took generations to harvest, and why classical Christian education is uniquely equipped to pass these truths on to the next generation. Whether you're a homeschool parent trying to instill love of country, a classical educator looking for a fresh angle on American history, or simply someone who wants to feel more grateful and less cynical — this conversation will leave you inspired, informed, and a little more proud to be an American. Jane Hampton Cook's Website…

People in this episode

Host: Robert Bortins

Guest: Jane Hampton Cook

Topics covered

• American history
• gratitude
• Founding Fathers
• classical education
• republic preservation
• homeschooling

Keywords

• gratitude
• American Revolution
• classical education
• Founding Fathers
• homeschooling
• Bunker Hill
• George Washington

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Declaration of Independence

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